Watch: Shana Tova from President Obama

President Obama extends his warm wishes to Jews around the world for Rosh Hashanah.

Ben Ariel, Canada, 11/09/15 23:37

US President Barack Obama

Reuters

President Barack Obama on Friday wished Jews in the United States, Israel and around the world a “Shana Tova” (Happy New Year), ahead of the holiday of Rosh Hashanah which begins Sunday at sundown.

“Jewish tradition teaches us that, for the next ten days, the Book of Life is open. As millions of Jews ask G-d to inscribe their name in that book, we recognize how much lies beyond our control. Yet during these Days of Awe we also recognize our tremendous power to make a difference, in our lives and in our world,” Obama said.

“As human beings we’re not required to be perfect, but we are required to atone where we’ve fallen short, and to do whatever we can to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past,” he continued.

“Faith is hard, hope is hard, peace is hard, but right now the book is open, not just for G-d but for us. As a community bound together by shared values, side by side with friends and allies like the State of Israel.”

“Let’s write the next chapter in a way that speaks to the best of our traditions and the highest of our ideals. Let’s usher in a sweet new year, full of health and happiness for our families, friends and neighbors, whether they live down the street or halfway around the world,” said Obama.

“Happy New Year to everyone and from my family to yours, Shana Tova.”

(Arutz Sheva’s North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Arutz Sheva articles, however, is Israeli time.)